What is the immediate action for severe hypoglycemia if a client is unconscious?

In the case of severe hypoglycemia when a client is unconscious, administering glucagon is the immediate and appropriate action. Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood glucose levels by prompting the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream. When a person is unconscious due to significantly low blood sugar, they are unable to swallow or ingest food or drink safely; therefore, providing water or any oral intake would pose a risk of choking or aspiration.

Calling for emergency help is certainly important in a complete care approach, but it does not address the urgent need to raise the client’s blood glucose level. Time is crucial in cases of severe hypoglycemia because prolonged low blood sugar can lead to serious complications, including brain damage or death.

Waiting for the client to regain consciousness is not a viable option since the client may continue to experience dangerous levels of low blood sugar during that time. Administering glucagon allows for swift intervention to stabilize the client’s condition while emergency medical personnel are contacted or arrive. Thus, administering glucagon is the most effective immediate action in this scenario.